What is Arthritis of the Thumb?

Our thumbs are quietly powerful. We use them constantly—whether opening jars, typing messages, or turning doorknobs. It is only when pain sets in that we realise how important they truly are. Arthritis of the thumb can make these everyday tasks difficult and painful. This condition affects millions in the UK and beyond, yet many people do not understand what it involves. If you have noticed stiffness or discomfort at the base of your thumb, you may be experiencing arthritis in this crucial joint.

What is Arthritis of the Thumb?

Arthritis is a condition that causes pain and inflammation in the joints. The most common type affecting the thumb is osteoarthritis. This happens when the cartilage that cushions the bones in the thumb joint starts to wear away. The specific joint involved is called the carpometacarpal joint, or CMC joint, which sits at the base of the thumb near the wrist. When cartilage breaks down, the bones rub against each other, causing pain, swelling, and loss of movement. This makes the thumb stiff and sometimes swollen, impacting your grip and dexterity.

Symptoms of Thumb Arthritis

The signs of arthritis in the thumb can vary, but often include:

• Pain at the base of the thumb, especially during gripping or pinching
  
• Swelling and tenderness around the joint
  
• Stiffness that makes moving the thumb difficult
  
• Decreased strength in your pinch or grip
  
• Limited range of motion in the thumb
  
• A bony bump or enlargement near the affected joint
  
• Sometimes, redness or warmth in the area
  
  

If you find it painful to twist open a jar or struggle with fine movements, these could be early warning signs.

Causes and Risk Factors

Thumb arthritis develops mainly because the cartilage cushioning the joint wears down over time. This is often due to ageing and repetitive use. Some people are more prone to the condition than others. Causes and risk factors include:

• Age over 40, as cartilage naturally deteriorates
  
• Previous injury or trauma to the thumb joint, such as fractures or sprains
  
• Being female, with women more commonly affected
  
• Genetics, including loose ligaments or malformed joints
  
• Obesity, which can add stress to joints
  
• Other health conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus
  
• Jobs or hobbies that place high stress on the thumb joint, such as manual labour or frequent gripping
  
  

Understanding these factors helps identify who might be at risk and why the joint becomes painful.

How is Thumb Arthritis Diagnosed?

If you suspect arthritis in your thumb, a healthcare professional will begin by asking about your symptoms and medical history. They will want to know if your pain is constant or linked to certain activities. During the physical exam, they will check for tenderness, swelling, and how well you can move your thumb. They might feel for a gritty sensation or listen for grinding noises when moving the joint. To confirm the diagnosis, an X-ray is often ordered. This shows how much cartilage has worn away and reveals any bone spurs or joint damage.

Treatment Options for Arthritis of the Thumb

Treatment depends on how severe your symptoms are and aims to ease pain and improve function. Options include:

• Pain relief with medications such as NSAIDs (ibuprofen) or acetaminophen
  
• Using ice packs or heat pads to reduce pain and swelling
  
• Wearing a thumb splint or brace to stabilise and rest the joint
  
• Exercises guided by a hand therapist to strengthen muscles and improve movement
  
• Lifestyle changes like maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding activities that worsen symptoms
  
  

If pain is severe, corticosteroid injections into the joint may be recommended to reduce inflammation. In cases where other treatments fail, surgery might be considered. Surgical options include:

• Joint replacement to remove damaged bone and insert an artificial joint
  
• Fusion, which joins bones together to reduce pain but limits movement
  
• Ligament reconstruction and tendon interposition, which uses tendons to stabilise the joint
  
• Denervation, which reduces pain by interrupting nerve signals
  
  

Your doctor will discuss the best option based on your condition and lifestyle.

Recommended Supportive Products for Thumb Arthritis

If thumb arthritis is causing pain, the right support can really help. VibrantFit.co.uk has thumb braces and splints that stabilise the joint without stopping your movement. Their Thumb Splint Brace eases strain on the CMC joint, making daily tasks easier. For stronger support, the Adjustable Thumb Stabilizer offers firm but comfortable compression. These lightweight supports help relieve pain and keep your thumb moving more comfortably.

Living with Thumb Arthritis

Having arthritis in your thumb can change how you manage everyday tasks. Simple things like opening a bottle or holding a book might become tricky. Using splints can offer support, and hand therapists can teach you ways to protect your thumb while staying active. It is important to listen to your body and take breaks when needed. Adapting how you perform certain actions, such as using ergonomic tools, can also help ease strain. Early treatment can slow progression and keep your thumb as functional as possible.

Also read : What is a Torn TFCC

When to See a Doctor

If you experience ongoing pain, swelling, or stiffness in the base of your thumb, it is a good idea to see a healthcare provider. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent the condition from worsening. Seek medical advice if daily activities become difficult or if you notice a visible bump near your thumb joint. Timely intervention improves your chances of managing symptoms effectively.

Prognosis and Outlook

Thumb arthritis is common but very manageable. Many people find relief through non-surgical treatments such as splints, medication, and exercises. For others, surgery offers a chance to reduce pain and regain function. Rehabilitation with hand therapy is key to recovery. With the right care, most people continue to use their thumbs in daily life with minimal discomfort. Don’t hesitate to get help early; taking control of symptoms can make a big difference.

Conclusion

Thumb arthritis can really get in the way of everyday tasks, making simple things like opening jars or holding a pen painful and frustrating. The good news is that there are plenty of ways to manage the symptoms, from splints and exercises to medication and, if needed, surgery. Catching it early and getting the right treatment can make a big difference in keeping your thumb working well for years to come. If you’re noticing ongoing pain or stiffness, it’s definitely worth chatting with a healthcare professional to find the best way to ease your discomfort and keep your hand strong.